KU reaches United Way goal of $225,000

LAWRENCE -- The University of Kansas has given the United Way of Douglas County an early holiday gift with the announcement that it has reached this year's $225,000 goal.

"On behalf of my colleagues, I am proud to be a part of KU's support of Lawrence and Douglas County at a time when need is so great," said JoAnn Smith, vice provost for university outreach and dean of continuing education. Smith also is chair of this year's campaign.

About 30 agencies in Douglas County benefit from the donations, including Ballard Community Center, Brookcreek Learning Center, Douglas County Child Development Association and PŽlathŽ Community Resource Center.

"The United Way of Douglas County would like to thank the KU community for its generous support," said Jo Bryant, executive director of the United Way of Douglas County.

Fund raising began in August with an effort not only to raise more money but also to involve more people than in the past.

Regionally, KU consistently has ranked high among the Big 12 schools for the size of individual gifts but has ranked lower for the number of staff and faculty members contributing. New events, such as the Challenge for Change, and returning events such as the Rock Chalk Revue and the law school's Ipsa Race/Walk all brought in more money than in the past, but individual contributions continue to make up the bulk of the money raised.

KU employees contribute to the United Way through payroll deductions and can designate contributions for specific agencies.

Last year, 677 donors contributed $212,972.96 to the campaign. Totals for this year's campaign will be announced next month. Donations still are being accepted.

For more information visit http://www.ur.ku.edu/unitedway/ or http://www.unitedwaydgco.org.